Arlington National Cemetery’s horticulture division installed the first labels on its trees Sept. 25, a major step in establishing Arlington as a “Memorial Arboretum.” The first three labels now adorn the State Champions Pin Oak, Yellowwood and Empress trees located in sections 35, 23 and 46, respectively.
“The grounds at Arlington honor our veterans and their families by providing a sense of beauty and peace. As a Memorial Arboretum, we are preserving and interpreting the collection of trees and ornamental plants that serve as a backdrop to this National Shrine. These labels are a significant part of being recognized as an arboretum,” said Steve Van Hoven, horticulture division chief and master arborist.
Over the next several weeks, Van Hoven and Kelly Wilson, Arlington’s horticulturist, will install a total of 297 labels on many of the cemetery’s notable trees, including its 36 historic trees to commemorate Medal of Honor recipients, and other specimens along highly visited routes.
The labels will allow visitors to identify the trees as they explore the grounds, including the tree’s latin and common names, family name, and the native range of the tree. The labels for the Medal of Honor trees also include an identification number that corresponds to the listing located on Arlington’s website.
“We hope these labels enhance visitors’ experiences, educating them about the special and diversified trees and plants that beautify these hallowed grounds,” said Wilson.